The construction season has begun in the United States, presenting an ideal time to explore Open Deck solutions that assist companies in meeting their delivery deadlines.
During this period, there is a significant increase in commercial, infrastructure, and residential projects, especially in areas from Southern California to South Carolina. In these regions, warmer temperatures allow construction companies to extend their working hours and make efficient progress. This time known as “construction season” extends from April to August. As winter approaches and snowfall becomes more frequent, project development becomes more complicated.
During this period, there is a heightened demand for transporting materials such as lumber, steel beams, concrete blocks, roofing shingles, and heavy machinery. This means the season is crucial not only for the construction sector but also for the logistics industry. It offers a chance for logistics services to fulfill the construction sector’s client needs, given that a significant portion of a project’s success hinges on the timely and excellent condition delivery of essential materials.
How does logistics impact the success of construction projects?
Construction projects often face delays. These delays are linked to numerous factors, such as the high cost and scarcity of materials or holdups in obtaining approvals. However, according to research conducted by XYZ Reality in 2023, the primary challenge construction companies face in meeting their delivery deadlines is associated with supply chain disruptions.
This means that the logistics sector can play a significant role in mitigating the risks associated with this challenge. Primarily, ensuring the timely delivery of materials and machinery necessary for the development of the project prevents the schedule from being delayed by a day, a week, or even longer. Consequently, it also saves construction companies from having to incur extra costs due to the time invested by crew members in the project, which ends up being more than initially budgeted.
Therefore, considering that time is money, a recommended strategy to ensure that materials and equipment arrive at their destination on time and in good condition is to develop a logistical plan that involves reserving the service in advance.
How does the construction season impact the demand for Open Deck?
Open Deck transportation, utilizing flatbed, step deck, Hot Shot, and RGN trailers, is the most suitable option for heavy machinery, construction equipment, or oversized freight commonly found in construction projects. These trailers are advantageous because they lack physical walls or a ceiling, facilitating both the loading and the transportation of cargo.
Consequently, during the construction season, there’s a surge in demand for Open Deck services. This surge can present challenges for companies in securing the necessary trucks, especially when reservations are made close to the desired delivery date, and may lead to increased rates. Therefore, scheduling services in advance facilitates not only timely delivery but also effective cost management, ensuring alignment with the project’s budget.
Another way to make the transportation of these materials more efficient is to use an Open Deck service that includes options such as Team Driving. It involves two drivers sharing the driving responsibilities on a single trip, which allows for continuous travel without the need for extended stops. This method is especially beneficial for urgent deliveries or long-distance transport, where time is crucial.
How can construction project coordinators gain more peace of mind?
Ensuring the timely delivery of materials and machinery through Open Deck services is not the only way to provide peace of mind to clients in the construction sector. The goods transported for projects are often of high value, which means that clients from this industry may perceive a higher risk associated with their transport.
Indeed, the issue of input costs in this industry is critical. The volatility of material and machinery costs is considered one of the biggest concerns by construction companies. This situation not only complicates access to these commodities but often pushes costs beyond the initial budget.
Particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic and the onset of the war in Ukraine, inflation has made it more challenging for organizations to construct accurate budgets for construction projects. The 2023 Global Construction Survey conducted by KPMG highlights that establishing precise budgets to avoid cost overruns is a priority for 83% of the surveyed companies.
Therefore, there is an opportunity for these companies to alleviate a significant concern by securing insurance for their cargo. This would allow them to be compensated in the event of an accident, natural disaster, or any other situation that could compromise the quality of their cargo, thus not significantly affecting their budget.
Choose GLT for Your Open Deck Needs This Construction Season!
GLT offers comprehensive Open Deck shipping solutions tailored to transport heavy machinery, construction equipment, oversized freight, and more, ensuring successful delivery with our expertise and specialized equipment. Our services feature trusted partnerships with a vast network of carriers, ensuring safe and efficient transportation, even during peak seasons.
Additionally, we provide a Team Driving solution for faster deliveries, a Multi-Stops option for cost-effective transport, specialized handling of project cargo, and Load-Matching Solutions to maximize efficiency and reduce costs. And, for giving more peace of mind, our comprehensive coverage offers all-risk and Door-to-Door coverage, protecting our clients’ business and bottom line.
Building on this commitment to excellence, we have formed partnerships with highly experienced drivers adept at managing oversized loads and construction-related materials. They utilize essential tools, such as straps, chains, dunnage, and binders, to guarantee the pristine condition of your shipment upon arrival.